According to Claas, its new VOLTO 55 tedder and LINER 320 rake bring “advanced technology features” that, until now, have only been available on wider, more expensive models in these ranges.
The new four-rotor VOLTO 55 (see featured picture – above) has a working width of 5.2m; it’s designed for spreading two swaths from mowers such as the 2.1m DISCO 210 or the 3.0m DISCO 3150 or 3200 models.
The VOLTO 55 is the latest in the tedder range to feature the existing ‘MAX SPREAD’ crop flow concept, previously only available on larger models. Unlike conventional straight tines, on the MAX SPREAD the tines are angled by 29°.
The benefit, says Claas, is that more crop is collected as each arm has a longer sweep.
Once collected, the crop flows between the rotors in a “straight line” – apparently reducing crop damage.
Overall, the spreading arms supposedly work for 65% longer. The apparent increase in pick-up rate and flow is claimed to result in increased forward speeds.
This also allows the VOLTO 55 to be run at a reduced (tractor) engine speed (to save fuel).
The drive system on the VOLTO 55 incorporates Claas’ patented PERMALINK finger clutch at the pivot points. It’s said to be “maintenance free” and allows the arms to be folded by up to 180º (for a compact transport width).
Each of the four 1.5m-diameter rotors is fitted with six 10.5mm tines and, for different crop conditions, the spreading angle can be adjusted by between 12º and 16º (without needing tools).
New ‘farmer-sized’ rake
Meanwhile, the new single-rotor LINER 320 completes Claas’ range of compact rakes; it has a working width of 3.2m.
Claas says that its lightweight design makes it the “ideal entry model for use with smaller tractors and in awkwardly-shaped fields or on difficult hill-sides”.
As with larger LINER models, the rotor drive (including the cam track) is sealed and continuously lubricated. The rotor is fitted with eight tine arms – each with three 9mm-diameter spring tines that are clamped in place using a cotter pin.
Working height is adjusted using a lockable hand crank.
As standard, the LINER 320 is carried on a single axle (fitted with 16/6.5-8 tyres). A tandem-axle configuration is optional.
Each of the arms incorporates a defined bending point so, in the event of the arm striking a solid object, this will bend to avoid the drive system being damaged.
A ‘U’ shaped stabilising frame (incorporating the three-point mounting) is designed to improve contour following. Having removed some of the tine arms, the LINER 320 can be folded down to as little as 2.25m for transport or storage.
